We had the good fortune of connecting with Kat Carter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kat, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I had never thought that I would actually start my own business but had always thought of it. I sort of fell into it when my good friend Kim Carlos started the Plus Sidez Podcast. My background originally started in media, and once she thought of starting, I decided to lean into all of my fear and reservations of jumping, and dove in with her.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I like to think of myself as a late bloomer, and for good reason! My professional journey started as an on-air personality while I was still finishing college. Then, it was a whirlwind of news production, morning radio, events—pretty much anything except dog sitting—during my time at Radio One Raleigh, NC. I even gave radio sales a shot in Charlotte, NC, though let’s just say it wasn’t exactly my calling.

After moving to Georgia to marry the guy I met back in Raleigh, I decided to try my hand at the “straight-laced” life. That meant working as a donor recruitment coordinator for the American Red Cross, which eventually led me to social media specialist and client support roles in various tech spaces. But, even after all that, I still yearned for a way to weave my original love of media back into my life, a passion that started 15 years ago.

Now, Kim Carlos and I have teamed up to create the Plus Sidez podcast. It’s been an absolute blast combining her marketing genius with my… well, let’s call it my “classic” media approach.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Guests in town? Excellent excuse for a field trip! I propose a delightful North Georgia day: a ‘light’ hike (translation: we’ll mostly be taking scenic photos) followed by a well-deserved wine tasting. Because, let’s be honest, is there a better reward for mild exertion? And yes, you’ve guessed it, I might have a slight wine obsession.

For optimal winery bliss, Thursdays and Fridays are your golden tickets. Fewer crowds mean royal treatment and prime seating to soak in those mountain vistas. Think of it as VIP grape-sipping. Northwest of Atlanta, Sharp Mountain Vineyards, Engelheim, Chateau Meichtry, and Ott Farms are my go-tos. If you’re rolling up I-400, Dahlonega’s Wolf Mountain or Cavender Creek Vineyards are calling your name. Most wineries have food trucks, perfect for lunch and, you know, ‘juice’ consumption. And if you’re hitting Dahlonega and need to counteract all that ‘juice’ with some serious BBQ, Big D’s in Dawsonville is our post-winery pilgrimage spot.

Now, about Atlanta nightlife… let’s just say my ‘boogie’ days are more of a gentle sway these days, thanks, perimenopause! But I still love a good day adventure. Atlanta’s festival scene is where it’s at: music, food, wine, even basket weaving if you’re feeling crafty. I’ve sampled many a wine festival, and Suwannee’s is the reigning champ. If beer is more your jam, Orpheus Brewing and SweetWater are where you’ll find my flight-loving self.

If we can catch a show, City Winery is a must. The acoustics are fantastic, the seating’s great, and “surprise!” they have wine. Always check their lineup. For foodies, skip the chains! Mezza Luna in Smyrna is my intimate Italian hideaway. South City Kitchen nails Southern comfort, and any location will leave you happily stuffed. Burger aficionados, prepare for enlightenment at The Vortex (Midtown or Little 5 Points). Their burgers are legendary, and the atmosphere is… well, let’s just say memorable.

And finally, for the ultimate Atlanta experience, we must visit the Clermont Lounge. Ideally, on a Saturday night. It’s a rite of passage for out-of-towners. If they’re game for a true, unfiltered Atlanta adventure, the Clermont will deliver. Trust me (or don’t, but you’ll regret missing it)

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The success of both my work and the podcast stems from the GLP1 community, a unique group navigating the complexities of obesity recovery, often after years of shame and mental anguish. The evolving science of obesity medicine has redefined our understanding, recognizing obesity as a chronic illness deserving of fair treatment. I’m deeply proud of this community and honored to serve it.

A special acknowledgment goes to Kim Carlos, founder of the Plus Sidez Podcast. Her vision to educate and highlight our community created a truly healing and empowering space.

I also want to thank my husband, James Carter, who consistently encouraged me to step forward and shared my excitement in this endeavor. My gratitude extends to my friends, especially Beverly Brunston, for her expert advice and unwavering confidence.

Website: https://theplussidez.net/

Instagram: @mrskatcarter

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharine-carter-2086b5326/

Other: tiktok: @katcarter7

Image Credits
Anthem Awards

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.